When it comes to FPV there’s tons of variation in the types of drones that pilots build and fly. These drones come in a diverse array of types, each catering to different flying styles, applications, and pilot preferences. The types of FPV drones can primarily be divided into two aspects: flying style and size. This guide takes us through a detailed look at what types of FPV drones are available.
Here are Some FPV Drone Types
The fpv drone is often named by the rotor’s rotational diameter. For example, the most common 5-inch machine refers to the rotor diameter of 5-inch aircraft. In addition, crossover aircraft with rotor blades less than 3 inches is often defined by the axis distance of the diagonal two motors
The common fpv drone classifications are as follows:
| Rotor diameter (inch) |
wheelbase (mm) |
application | speed (km/h) |
battery life (min) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1.5″~2″ | 50~100mm | Indoor racing / freestyle | 80 km/h | 3~5 |
| 2.5″ | 100~140mm | freestyle / aerial photography | 100 km/h | 3~8 |
| 3″ | 140~180mm | freestyle/aerial photography | 120 km/h | 3~10 |
| 5″ | 200~220mm | racing/freestyle/aerial photography | 200 km/h | 3~10 |
| 6″~7″ | 250~500mm | long range/aerial photography | 150 km/h | 10~15 |
| 8”+ | 600mm+ | X-Class race | 150 km/h | 2~5 |
Classification by Flying Style or Function
Tiny Whoops
It is known for the protective duct around the blade. The existence of ducts makes the aircraft relatively safe, crashworthy, suitable for indoor flying and beginners. The motors of micro duct machines are usually divided into two types, coreless motors and brushless motors, which will be explained in detail later.
Cinewhoops
Compared with the tiny whoop, the size of the conventional aerial duct machine is more than 2.5 inches, and the duct is wider and thicker. In addition to making the traversing machine safer and more resistant to collisions, the duct can also relatively increase the lifting power. The aerial photography duct can be additionally equipped with a motion camera for aerial photography
FPV Racing Drones
The 5-inch racing drone is the most common type of racing, and its weight, speed and stability are relatively balanced. The 5-inch racing drone is the model with the most equipped software and hardware on the market, so it is generally recommended to install a 5-inch FPV drone for the first time, instead of assembling and buying directly for beginners. In addition to being used for standard traversing machine racing competitions, the 5-inch can also be used for freestyle performances or high-definition aerial photography.
Toothpicks
The toothpick fpv drone got its name because of its thin arms. Since the smaller the size of the aircraft, the more difficult it is for the lifting force of the propeller to overcome the weight of the fuselage. The 2-5~3-inch aircraft can reduce part of the weight through the design of the thin arm. The body of the toothpick machine is relatively fragile, so it is not suitable for beginners.
Long-range
The long-range fpv drone is used for long-distance aerial photography with a slender body, and uses a battery with high power and low current to guarantee endurance.
Cinelifter
Cinelifter drones are expertly crafted octocopters in X8 configuration, with each arm being equipped with two powerful motors and typically running 6-8″ propellers. They are purpose-built to carry high-end cameras for professional-grade shooting.
X-Class
X-class racing drone are expensive, difficult to operate, and highly dangerous. Currently, they are relatively rare in China.
Classification of FPV Drone Kit
In order to simplify the assembly process, many manufacturers will also launch pre-assembled fpv drone. Some work out of the box, and some need to be paired to use. Although these sets of machines can simplify the process, they also involve relatively complicated issues such as maintenance or parameter adjustment. Routine use of complete machines and kits still requires a certain accumulation of knowledge and skills.
FPV RTF Bundle
A suit designed for players who don’t have any FPV equipment, or who want to start flying quickly in one step.
The suit generally contains all the components needed for the first-view flight of the traversing machine, including FPV system, remote control system, battery and charger, and a full-featured traversing machine. The firmware of each component is usually burned and paired when it leaves the factory, and it can fly right out of the box. It is recommended for players who have no flying and installation experience to purchase.
RTF（Ready-to-fly) and BNF（Bind-and-fly）
RTF and BNF are complete machines designed for players who already have remote control and FPV equipment.
- The difference between RTF and FPV kit is that RTF does not include FPV glasses and remote control, but it is equipped with a remote control signal receiver. When purchasing an RTF machine, you need to ensure that the receiver of the traversing machine is compatible with your own remote control.
- BNF means it will fly if the pair is connected. The difference from the FPV kit is that the BNF machine does not include FPV glasses, remote control and remote control signal receiver. If you already have ready made FPV glasses and receivers, you need to purchase additional signal receivers and solder them to the flight controller.
- In addition, different manufacturers may have different definitions of the two complete machines, and they need to be confirmed through the component list when purchasing.
- In addition to indoor units designed for novices, RTF and BNF complete machines also include normal-sized racing machines over 5 inches, which need to be carefully distinguished before purchasing.
Classification by FPV Drone Sizes
The maximum propeller size that a drone can operate determines its size. When you’re prepared to begin construction, measure the FPV drone size first. For example, 5-inch propellers can be used with the most common size of drones, which is 5-inches.
- Small: A propeller that is less than 4 inches in diameter is classified as small or micro.
- Medium: FPV drones with propellers between 4 and 6 inches are classified as medium. The majority of FPV drones currently use 5-inch propellers, which is the most common size.
- Large: Large FPV drones that fly farther require propellers of seven inches or larger.Regardless of size, pilots can use their FPV drones however they like. However, when using drones of different sizes, pilots often fall into three primary flying styles-racing, freestyle and cinematic.
As more and more pilots come to an agreement, FPV frames larger than two inches are sized by the size of the adapted propeller, and overall micro whoop is sized by the frame pitch size.The table is shown below：
| FRAME SIZE(WHEELBASE) | TYPE | PROPS |
| 65/75/85mm | Tiny Whoop | 31~40mm Propellers |
| 95/100mm | Micro Drone(2 inch) | 20xx Propellers |
| 105~120mm | 2.5 inch | 25xx Propellers |
| 120~150mm | 3 inch | 30xx Propellers |
| 150~180mm | 4 inch | 40xx Propellers |
| 180~220mm | 5 inch | 49/50/51xx Propellers |
| 235~266mm | 6 inch | 49/50/51xx Propellers |
| 280~315mm | 7 inch | 70/71xx Propellers |
| 95~220mm | Cinewhoop/Toothpack(2-5 inch) | 75mm-51xx Propellers |
Small Size
Tiny Whoop Drone
A line of tiny FPV drones called Tiny Whoops is intended exclusively for indoor use. They weigh between 20 and 30 grams with the integrated battery, which makes them affordable, lightweight, and simple to fly. With integrated prop guards, commonly referred to as “ducts,” they shield people and things from the propellers. Their wheelbases range from 65 to 85 mm. On the other hand, the ducts increase bulk and decrease usability, which makes them less appropriate for usage outdoors in windy conditions.
2-Inch, 2.5-inch and 3-Inch
The world of FPV drones has expanded beyond the classic 5-inch models to offer a spectrum of sizes for different pilot experiences. Among these, the 2-inch, 2.5-inch and 3-inch categories have gained immense popularity due to their unique blend of portability, agility and performance. They can do almost everything a 5-inch drone can do, except carry a GoPro.
Cinewhoops
Cinewhoops are 3″ or smaller drones with ducts to protect the propellers, designed to be used with an HD camera, such as a GoPro, to capture stunning cinematic footage. They are safe to fly indoors and are designed for smooth, leisurely flights rather than acrobatic or freestyle flying.
Medium Size
4 inch FPV Drone
Most pilots fly 3’’ or 5’’ quads, although standard 4’’ quads are seldom flown.Another sort of 4-inch drone that pilots give greater care to are long-range drones.
5 inch FPV Drone
One of the more agile drones is the 5-inch model. It’s usually used for racing, freestyle or dramatic shots. With an incredibly high thrust-to-weight ratio, 5-inch drones are capable of amazing manoeuvres such as rolls, dives and spins.
In addition, 5-inch drones are quite efficient, with flight times ranging from 3 to 8 minutes, depending on how fast you fly the device. When properly designed and tuned, many 5-inch drones fly extremely smoothly, providing an amazing experience that makes you feel like you are flying like a bird.
A 5-inch is probably the best area for a beginner to start in, apart from a few rookie mistakes, as it has the best locations and is also one of the most popular types of FPV drone. The 5-inch drone is probably the best option if you want to perform incredible freestyle techniques and acrobatics.
6 inch FPV Drone
Long-range drones, such as the 6-inch and 7-inch models, are suitable because they can reach higher top speeds and carry heavier payloads (such as larger batteries) than the standard 5-inch drone. They are less common for freestyle and racing. However, as they tend to have more momentum and are less manoeuvrable than the smaller 5″ models.
Large Size
7 inch FPV Drone
The primary goal of the 7-inch FPV drone is long-range flying. Many pilots fly 7-inch drones for their performance, while some can also be used for light freestyle moves. They can stay aloft for up to 15-20 minutes, depending on the battery and flight performance.
Although great for long distance flights, 7-inch drones are slightly more expensive to build or buy, so beginners should avoid choosing between 7-inch or 6-inch drones, as both carry serious risks.
X-Class and Beast Class
The biggest and most potent drones on this list, the X-class and Beast class, are not advised for novices because of their exorbitant cost, upkeep requirements, and possible risk. X-class drones utilize propellers that are between 800 and 1200 mm in size, while Beast class drones have frames that are smaller than 800 mm. Usually, racing or high-performance flying uses both classes.
What FPV Drone Size is Right for You?
5 inch FPV Drone: A 5’’ FPV drone is a great choice for novices because of its many flying modes, which include freestyle, racing, and cinematography. Its most common size and sufficient power to accommodate a GoPro make it simpler to locate assistance and support on the internet. The size of drone you select will ultimately rely on your flying objectives and preferences as well as local laws and ordinances.
Tiny Whoop FPV Drone: Many pilots got their start with a whoop.It’s ideal to learn acro at 75mm. It can be flown almost anyplace. It’s also safer. I suggest looking for a whoop that the pilots are interested in, either 1s or 2s. 1s for indoor racing, 2s for outside flying in a breeze. It lowers the entrance fee.
Cinewhoop FPV Drone: The following characteristics apply to it.
- Using prop guards
- Carrying GoPro or other action cameras is simple.
- Flying in small spaces and in close proximity to the topic
- High demand for commercial FPV drone footage
2 inch, 2.5-inch and 3-InchFPV Drone: If you’re looking for something small, light, and effective, then… 2 is a fantastic choice. Additionally, two-craft are far less expensive to construct and maintain. And for a tiny yard, two inches. 2.5 only gets a little bit better for small spaces. Although it is smaller, 3 inches seems to resemble 5 inches. A 3 inch freestyle drone would be my first choice if it’s just a pastime because it’s compact and durable.
Generally speaking, Choose the 5’’ if you want a well-balanced FPV drone in all setups and an improved flying experience. Choose the 3-inch, which is usually closer to the 5-inch, if it’s merely a hobby for you. For those who want to fly in confined spaces, consider the 2 inch or tiny whoop. Our recommendation is to select Cinewhoop if you are involved in social media or photography.
Conclusion
Different types of FPV drones offers a lot of options for enthusiasts and professionals alike, each tailored to specific flying styles and size preferences. By understanding the distinctions between the different types of FPV drones, pilots can make informed decisions, tailor their flying experience to their personal aspirations, and ultimately, maximize their enjoyment of this exhilarating hobby.